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Sveum sees closer potential in reliever Strop

Sveum sees closer potential in reliever Strop

7/27/13: After loading the bases in the eighth, Pedro Strop works out of the jam by inducing two ground balls and striking out Hunter Pence

By Carrie Muskat
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MLB.com |

SAN FRANCISCO -- After Pedro Strop escaped a bases-loaded jam in the eighth inning Saturday night by striking out the Giants' Hunter Pence, he celebrated with an exuberant fist pump. That's something many closers do, and Strop may be in line for the job.

Kevin Gregg's name has been mentioned in trade rumors, and the Cubs' closer, who picked up his 21st save Saturday, could be headed to a team looking for late-inning help in the stretch run. The Cubs acquired Strop from the Orioles on July 2 in the Scott Feldman deal.

"He's a guy who hasn't really closed but he's pitched in high-level games," manager Dale Sveum said Sunday. "Last night, you can't substitute that kind of stuff and a power breaking ball."

Strop has three saves in 15 career opportunities. In 2012, he struggled in the role, going 3-for-10 in save situations. The right-hander does seem to have the personality for the job.

"I think he has a lot of fun, and with his stuff and his makeup, from what I've seen, he's a guy who can handle that situation," Sveum said.